Gulf depression weakens to a low

TAMPA - A disorganized tropical depression in the Gulf of Mexico has dissipated, but may still bring winds and rain to the area.

The depression's maximum sustained winds decreased to near 30 mph on Wednesday. But the National Hurricane Center says some strengthening is possible before its center reaches land on Thursday.

If the depression becomes a tropical storm, it would be named Danielle.

A tropical storm warning has been issued for much of the Gulf Coast from Destin, Fla., to Intracoastal City, La., including New Orleans.

The system is moving to the west-northwest at 10 mph off the west coast of Florida producing warm, tropical conditions across the Tampa Bay area. The rain chance for much of today is 70 percent, mainly along the coastal areas.

Officials have halted drilling on a relief well intended to permanently plug the blown-out well in the Gulf.

Two other tropical systems are being watched in the distant Atlantic and pose no threat to Florida.